Inexpensive, cart impression
I'm reporting on a Soundsmith Otello, that I recently acquired.
My ears have grown accustomed to listening with decent LOMC in the $1-2.5K MSRP range. After the last one bit the dust, I decided to take a break, and buy something for much less.
The SS is nearly 6X LE$$(399)than the previous Kiseki Blue on my table. It's the latest design,which is a lot nicer looking than older SS models.
Very easy to mount on on my VPI Classic. Followed the SS recommendation of basic setup. With the Otello having about 25 hours of spin time, I believe it's at or near, the settle down period.
My results are aligning with the review here:
https://www.eliteaudiouk.com/single-post/2018/02/26/SoundSmith-Otello-Review-in-HiFi-Choice
After some tube and sub adjustments for the Otello's sound signature,I'm able to get an acceptable level of bass that I had with my reference cart. Obviously, It's still an entry level cart, but I hear a surprising amount of punch to things now. Just not with the last degree of impact i'm used to.
The mids and vocals are the Otello strength in my system. Highs are clear, just pushed back a tiny bit. I haven't devoted much time to fine tuning azimuth or VTA/SRA. Tracking is set on the suggested high end-1.6 grams. The cart is setup with it appearing just a hair above parallel viewed from the side-tail end up. Azimuth for now is level from the front.
Overall clarity has improved since day one. Sound is much less veiled, and more open. I am familiar with the SS line, and have heard their best. The Otello gives a lot of performance for the price.
My wallet And ears are grateful.
When It's time to pony up, I will keep the SS Aida or MIMC in mind.
My ears have grown accustomed to listening with decent LOMC in the $1-2.5K MSRP range. After the last one bit the dust, I decided to take a break, and buy something for much less.
The SS is nearly 6X LE$$(399)than the previous Kiseki Blue on my table. It's the latest design,which is a lot nicer looking than older SS models.
Very easy to mount on on my VPI Classic. Followed the SS recommendation of basic setup. With the Otello having about 25 hours of spin time, I believe it's at or near, the settle down period.
My results are aligning with the review here:
https://www.eliteaudiouk.com/single-post/2018/02/26/SoundSmith-Otello-Review-in-HiFi-Choice
After some tube and sub adjustments for the Otello's sound signature,I'm able to get an acceptable level of bass that I had with my reference cart. Obviously, It's still an entry level cart, but I hear a surprising amount of punch to things now. Just not with the last degree of impact i'm used to.
The mids and vocals are the Otello strength in my system. Highs are clear, just pushed back a tiny bit. I haven't devoted much time to fine tuning azimuth or VTA/SRA. Tracking is set on the suggested high end-1.6 grams. The cart is setup with it appearing just a hair above parallel viewed from the side-tail end up. Azimuth for now is level from the front.
Overall clarity has improved since day one. Sound is much less veiled, and more open. I am familiar with the SS line, and have heard their best. The Otello gives a lot of performance for the price.
My wallet And ears are grateful.
When It's time to pony up, I will keep the SS Aida or MIMC in mind.
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